Saturday 12 June 2010

Z Y X W V U T . . .



Can you say your alphabet backwards? That's one of the things that my grandfather could do - right up until he passed away last week, aged 97.

Fred - a good man who lived a good life. A kind and gentle man, a man who let you know he loved you. A man who was half of the team I know as my grandparents - the team who showed everyday what it is to live life from a place of love and respect. A man who's heart stretched way across the miles and who gave hugs that let you know you were cherished.

Well, Fred's body gave up the race, but his spirit lives on. And I smile as I think of (among other things) him teaching our kids the "backwards alphabet". It was a bit of a conversation piece for him and is now a bit of a party trick in our household. Not that long ago, while he was unwell and being assessed by medical staff, he whipped out the "backwards alphabet" - much to their amazement. At 97, no less!

Try it for yourself - it's not that hard once you get your head around it. But trust me, if you try to learn this sitting around the table with your kids laughing hysterically at you, it may take you a little longer!

So, here's to Fred - Z Y X W V U T S R Q P O N M L K J I H G F E D C B A

3 comments:

Sylvia said...

It is a sad time for you and your family but he certainly sounds like he was a lovely man. Thinking of you. Sylvia

Sue-Anne said...

So sorry to hear of the passing of your grandfather and your post is a lovely tribute to him with lots of fun memories.

ranette said...

I'm very sorry about your grandfather....my 96 year old grandfather passed away at the end of April, so I know how you feel. My prayers are with you.

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